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June Special Section
2 | June 2020 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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Kim, Dr. Alwan and Katelyn Wellstar Emergency Medical Team
SAFE EMERGENCY CARE Nothing - not even a pandemic - can distract us from our complete devotion to your healthcare.
Is it a sudden emergency like open-heart or trauma surgery? A pre-planned biopsy or joint replacement? Count on Wellstar experts at our hospitals and outpatient surgery centers for safe, compassionate care. From pre-op screenings to sterile operating rooms and all the way through recovery, our surgical team is dedicated to helping you live your healthiest life. Wellstar is providing safe surgeries amid COVID-19, and we are here to care for you. wellstar.org/safecare
More than healthcare. PEOPLE CARE PRIMARY CARE | URGENT CARE | HEALTH PARKS | HOSPITALS
COVID-19: Making primary care a priority Before the COVID-19 outbreak, scheduling a primary care appointment never took a second thought. Now in the wake of the pandemic, many people may be skipping those important preventative care visits – and end up putting their overall health at risk. During COVID-19 and beyond, primary care plays a major role in staying healthy, according to Wellstar health experts. “For many people, preventative care is often the first line of defense to spot potential health risks,” said Dr. Jeffrey Tharp, Wellstar Health System Chief of Primary Care & Medicine. “It’s important for everyone to get a wellness check-up at least once a year, even if you’re feeling completely healthy.” He continued, “Using diagnostic testing and other health screenings, your primary care physician can help identify conditions such as obesity or high blood pressure early, before they develop into more serious diseases.” Whether you need to schedule a routine health exam or receive treatment for a chronic condition, Wellstar is working hard to protect patients and team members amid COVID-19. “During this time, Wellstar is continuing to follow strict safety precautions to keep you safe and prevent potential infection throughout all of its facilities,” Dr. Tharp explained. Wellstar’s Primary Care Promise From small children to busy parents and active seniors, Wellstar offers individualized treatment for each and every person.
To find the right fit for your health needs, our expert medical team: Treats the whole person. Working alongside you, our care team listens to your questions and concerns to find the best treatment options. Delivers personalized care. Our care team takes the time to get to know you as an individual and understand your family medical history. Spots health issues early. Diagnostic testing and routine wellness checks (like mammograms or colonoscopies) can help catch more serious illnesses early. Uses a comprehensive approach. Primary care allows you to take charge of your health, whether you need up-todate immunizations or help to maintain a balanced diet. Offers continued care for chronic diseases. Find ongoing support and guidance to manage chronic health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure or arthritis. Coordinates treatment with specialists. When needed, primary care providers can refer you to other medical specialists – like cardiologists or neurologists – for treatment. Safe Care During COVID-19 Wellstar is committed to providing the best and safest care for patients of all ages. In response to the COVID-19 outbreak, all Wellstar locations have put additional measures in place to keep you and your family safe. For details about how Wellstar is ensuring the safety of patients and team members, visit wellstar.org/safecare or call (770) 956-STAR (7827).
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NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | June 2020 | 3
Longleaf Communities Brought to you by Kathy Rice Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty
Final opportunites available at Longleaf Communities Woodstock. Longleaf is a luxury homebuilder for active 55+ adults in metro Atlanta. Their spectacular, English Cottage style homes are designed RICE to meet the lifestyle needs and wishes of active seniors while providing low maintenance living. Longleaf Woodstock provides things other Active Adult communities provide: proximity to area attractions and life necessities, low maintenance and ease of living, a lock and go lifestyle and neighborhood amenities. With a Longleaf home, you can have all that plus, the distinguished architecture, attention to detail and superb craftsmanship you’re accustomed to. Our elegant homes feature airy floor plans with lofty 10-foot ceilings
and solid 8-foot doors outfitted with generous millwork throughout. Choose from a variety of custom cabinetry for your designer kitchen and select your preferred finishes for your designer bath. All of our homes feature two main floor bedrooms, each with a full bath
and laundry on the main. The upstairs includes a finished loft, additional full bath and the option to add another bedroom for more livable space to welcome guests. Longleaf Woodstock in Cherokee County has a Clubhouse and Pool, bocce
court, community gardens and a dog park) Our thoughtful floor plans and Longleaf’s reputation for superior craftsmanship, are what make Longleaf the luxury builder of active adult communities. www.longleafsouth.com (678) 697-4984
Timeless Design. Superior Quality. Carefree Community Living. A LUXURY 55+ COMMUNITY IN WOODSTOCK
Call today for a private tour.
d. 678.697.4984 o. 770.442.7300
Marketing and Sales by Atlanta FIne Homes Sotheby’s International Realty - 770.442.7300. © All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information contained herein is believed to be accurate but is not warranted and is subject to change without notice.
4 | June 2020 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Welcome to luxury living in Downtown Roswell! Welcome to Vickers Roswell, a boutique residential community featuring two and three bedroom apartments, nestled on Canton Street in downtown Roswell. Vickers Roswell is one of the only golf cart permissible towns in the state! Spacious layouts and amenities welcome you home, along with exceptional service and an ideal location within walking distance to shopping, dining and entertainment options on Canton Street. The living spaces at Vickers Roswell are thoughtfully designed with comfort and convenience in mind, and are stylishly appointed with the kind of premium materials and finishes you won’t find in any other apartments for rent in Roswell. Granite Countertops, Stainless Appliances, Hardwood Floors, Washer & Dryer included, Spacious Outdoor Entertaining area, Subway Tile Backsplash and Designer, Neutral Color Schemes are just a few of the luxurious amenities that are included at Vickers Roswell. Vickers Roswell Apartments in Downtown Roswell is ideally situated to give you easy access to the best of what the area has to offer. Walk to all of your favorite restaurants and shops in downtown Roswell! One Month FREE on 13+ Month Leases! Our community is now open for in-person tours! We still offer the option of a virtual tour or a self-guided tour. Please feel free to contact us with questions on any of these options. We look forward to hearing from you! Vickers Roswell 1180 Canton St. Roswell, GA 30075 vickersroswell.com (762) 239-0416
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6 | June 2020 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Crisis
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Workshops
By MICHELLE WILSON Wilson Legal, PC “I think I messed up.” A client’s son called us yesterday and said these words. His mom has been hospitalized and it could be serious. My WILSON heart dropped. The son (we’ll call him, Tim) had refused to take the steps recommended after his mother finished getting her estate plan from us. Tim didn’t want to face the eventuality of death for his mom and the things that could make life easier for both himself and his mother while she was living as well as after her death. Yes, we give our clients homework after they sign their documents like (1) be sure to go to the bank and change your beneficiaries, (2) be sure to give the banks and investment companies your power of attorney so that they have it on file and you don’t run the risk of issues popping up after someone loses capacity or is hospitalized, (3) put your documents in a safe place, (4) have your medications handy along
• Survival Guide If You Get Sued – For Agents and Trustees – June 26, 3 p.m. • Consumer’s Guide Buying A Trust – July 10, 3 p.m. • Long Term Care Insurance (Comparing the Companies) – July 17, 3 p.m. with your medical history (we can laminate a card for this), and (5) fill out your My Care Checklist© so that your future caregivers know all your unique quirks about sleeping, food, hobbies, and happiness. The good news about Tim is that it’s probably not too late to help his mom with her bills this month while she’s in the hospital. I hope this is a wake-up call for Tim and motivates him to cooperate and, even encourage, his mom to get her estate planning homework done. In fact, I hope this article motivates you, my reader, to take an inventory of what you need to do. If you aren’t sure what those things are, start with the list here and call me and I can help with anything you might miss. 770-205-7861 Wilson-legal.com
FREE Upcoming Webinars: Protect your family today!
Be sure to check out our webinars at Wilson-legal.com/events-listing/ June 26, 2020 at 3:00pm
Survival Guide If You Get Sued – For Agents and Trustees
July 10, 2020 at 3:00pm Consumer’s Guide Buying A Trust
July 17, 2020 at 3:00pm
Basics of Probate – When you need to use a Probate Court, What to expect, Why you may want to avoid it.
Attorney Michelle Wilson
407 East Maple St., #105 • Cumming, GA 30040 • (770) 205-7861
An undeniable lifestyle at Celebration Village Forsyth When your living space fits your lifestyle, you can thrive at any age. That is the philosophy behind Celebration Village Forsyth, a 52-acre master-planned senior living community in Forsyth County with houses for sale and all-inclusive-priced apartments for rent. After only nine months of operation, we are thrilled to be named the Best Senior Living Community North Atlanta, 1st Runner Up Memory Care in North Atlanta and Best in Forsyth. Celebration Village Forsyth is a firstin-class senior living community providing independent living, concierge living, assisted living and memory care in an ideal location where Suwanee, Johns Creek, Alpharetta and Cumming all come together. We offer opportunities for residents and team members to improve their vitality, engagement, and sense of overall meaning and purpose. Our goal is to provide aging-friendly environments that foster strong social connections, healthy lifestyles, all while reducing stress and increasing joy. That message comes from our owner and management team at AgeWell Living LLC and is the core of what we do at Celebration Village. Celebration Village Forsyth is crafted according to the Masterpiece Living philosophy, which supports aging as a precious part of life that should be embraced and used as a positive force. Every staff member – regardless of role – is trained to offer lifestyle support and coaching. Its dining options and amenities resemble resort-style store fronts, and programing is designed to support
We offer opportunities for residents and team members to improve their vitality, engagement, and sense of overall meaning and purpose. mental, physical, spiritual and intellectual acuity with a sense of purpose and meaning. Designed to nurture an independent yet carefree lifestyle, Celebration Village is a full age-in-place community with support services available to all our residents. Atlanta-area residents are clearly craving this approach as we filled our independent-living neighborhood very quickly and recently added 58 more beautiful contemporary apartment homes that keep luxury in mind. If a carefree, peace-of-mind, retirement lifestyle is what you or your loved ones have been looking for, give us a call at 770-886-6565 to set up a personal appointment and tour.
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An interview with Premier Dermatology’s newest provider: Kathryn Filipek, PA-C Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta recently welcomed certified Physician Assistant Kathryn Filipek (PA-C) to the practice. Having visited Premier Dermatology on several occasions, I have become quite FILIPEK familiar with the staff and was thus excited to interview the newest addition. Like all of her Premier Dermatology coworkers, Kathryn exudes warmth, genuine happiness and compassion. Her excitement for dermatology in palpable. The following is an expert of our interview: Maggie Mullvain: What do you like most about being a dermatology PA? Kathryn: I love the ability to establish interactive relationships with patients and their families. In almost 20 years of practicing Dermatology, I have been honored to treat entire families, all the way from infantile eczema to young children with warts, older siblings with teenage acne, parents with hair loss or seeking cosmetic maintenance, and grandparents with rashes or skin cancer. I feel very privileged that families trust me to care for them and allow me to be a part of their “medical family”. It’s a thrill for me to see children who I treated for a mole or a rash return after they graduate from college and tell me about their new careers. Maggie: What is your favorite area within dermatology? Kathryn: Honestly, I have a difficult time answering that. Dermatology is ever changing. New discoveries, technologies, and treatments revolutionize how we think about skin care and how we treat patients. When I began working in dermatology, Botox had just been approved and was injected into only a few places. We had collagen fillers that too frequently could cause allergic reactions. Our lasers were the size of a kitchen stove and were limited in their energy output. Now we have new laser, injectable and cosmetic treatments that yield astounding results. Not to mention all the new medications that we have for acne, the “biologics” for psoriasis and eczema, and the modern skin cancer and vein treatments available. It really is hard to choose. The fact that each interaction with patients is so different and the results so meaningful and satisfying whether we are working on a medical, surgical or cosmetic problem means that I have to say I have several favorites.
Maggie: So the fact that dermatology allows you to be so multidimensional is one of the field’s highlights? Kathryn: Exactly! Variety and advances keep me excited about every day. Maggie: What drew you to Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta? Kathryn: Balance. In the first seven years of my dermatology career, I worked in a very busy practice in South Florida where I could not be the well-rounded practitioner I am today. It was a great place to learn a lot about general dermatology and skin cancer and prepared me well in dermatology’s fundamentals, but the expectation to see too many patients in a short period made proper care challenging and spreading my wings difficult. Practicing the last several years at a busy practice in Buckhead, I gained expertise with many of dermatology’s cosmetic services and advanced technologies while staying on top of advances in medical and surgical dermatology. While my professional life was rewarding, the commute was a challenge. One thing we all know about Atlanta is that the traffic can be a battle. I am a Milton resident and have two daughters in local high schools. When the opportunity arose to practice close to home with an excellent physician such as Dr. Taylor, it was too good to pass up. I now enjoy the balance of a dynamic and varied work life and being close to home, with more time to spend with my husband and daughters. Thank you Kathryn for sharing your story with us today. Congratulations on the move, and welcome home!
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | June 2020 | 7
8 | June 2020 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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Village Parks named Best Memory Care Communities of Alpharetta Village Park Alpharetta and Village Park Milton are the proud recipients of MemoryCare.com’s 2020 Best Memory Care Communities of Alpharetta. Researchers with MemoryCare.com used a detailed methodology to choose the best communities. The team spent over 36 hours researching various memory care neighborhoods, interviewed representatives from local communities, and read more than 125 reviews written by residents and loved ones. Based on location, community features, amenities, availability, and involvement of experts, Village Park Alpharetta and Village Park Milton have been placed at the top of their list. All of the Village Park communities take immense pride in providing dignified care to senior living residents while creating unexpected happiness. Village Park’s newest neighborhood, Village Park Milton, opened its doors in April 2020. The property’s light and bright memory care is setting a new standard for communities designed for dementia and Alzheimer’s care. The floorto-ceiling windows create a light and airy feel while safe electric fireplaces, exposed brick, and natural stone counters generate warmth. Memory care residents also have access to enclosed gardens featuring a vertical garden or “live wall.” All
elements weave together to help memory care residents feel at home. Less than 10 minutes away, Village Park Alpharetta showcases the same definition of quality care. Families “appreciate the cleanliness and beautiful design of this ‘caring, vibrant community.’” Residents often enjoy relaxing in the serene ambiance created by the garden terrace. The comforting memory care neighborhood provides residents with individual support to encourage independence, dignity, and peace of mind. Village Park Senior Living’s multifaceted memory care program puts residents at the center of a complete care network of specially trained health professionals, staff, and neighbors. This highly connective program encourages individuality and independence, provides customized personal care, and creates opportunities and support for physical, sensory, social, and creative activity. If you’d like to learn more about memory care, assisted living, independent living, or any of the many programs, amenities, and activities we offer, please contact Village Park Senior Living at any of our locations for more information. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for updates and to check back often for new blogs.
Bungalows Cottages Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Care VillageParkSeniorLiving.com 5701 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092
Now Open! 770.416.0502
Bungalows | Cottages | Independent Living | Assisted Living | Memory Care 555 Wills Road, Alpharetta, GA 30009 | Next to Wills Park | 470.509.4557
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The Memory Center Atlanta The Memory Center Atlanta is the most unique and comprehensive community for those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. Devoted specifically to memory care, our expertly designed program meets the challenging conditions of an aging brain with a caring, interactive community. We understand a diagnosis of dementia doesn’t mean you or your loved one stops living, rather it means finding new ways to live by providing assistance to maintain an active and meaningful lifestyle. Our residents enjoy music, dancing, live entertainment, art, gardening, - even outings, pet therapy and religious services. Enjoy a drink in the Chattahoochee Tavern, grab a movie in the Fox Theater or ice cream at the Bull Dog Café. All residents experience socializa-
tion and activities accessible across all levels of dementia. Even those who need 24/7 care benefit from life at The Memory Center. Overseen by our medical director who specializes in the field of geriatric healthcare, our team of Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants provide the best 24/7 care. Don’t let a crisis determine where your loved one receives care. If you are considering memory care, we encourage you to explore options as early as possible. Take the time to ask questions, tour and include your loved one in the decision making process. Transitioning to memory care early ensures the best quality of life with daily socialization and engaging activities designed to meet the needs of you or your loved one.
NORTH ATLANTA’S HOT TOPICS ON PODCAST
Go to NorthFulton.com, click on Podcasts and select Inside The Box
Get in touch - ask us a question or schedule a tour of The Memory Center Atlanta to learn more about how our team provides a seamless transition for your loved one into their new home. Lo-
cated at 12050 Findley Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30097, less than ½ mile from Medlock Bridge Rd. directly behind Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Call Today, (770) 476-3678.
10 | June 2020 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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4 ways to stay connected when you’re apart Belmont Village Senior Living offers creative ideas for socializing safely The coronavirus pandemic has changed the daily routines of nearly every American. For most older adults, social distancing has meant staying indoors more. While keeping your distance is a necessary part of mitigating contagion, too much isolation and inactivity can lead to depression and other serious health problems. “Keeping an appropriate and healthy physical distance and following all of the recommended protocols during a time like this is a must, but physical distance doesn’t have to mean social distance,” said Belmont Village Gerontologist Beverly Sanborn. “We’ve challenged our teams to literally think outside of the box, and they’ve absolutely amazed us with their ideas and enthusiasm.” The team at Belmont Village Johns Creek accepted that challenge and is sharing some of the creative ways they’ve found to engage residents: Stay Connected. Belmont Village team members check in with residents
multiple times a day, but nothing is better than a call from family and friends. It’s also an opportunity to check in on their physical activity and offer encouragement. Do an activity together, from afar. Many activities, such as trivia games and book clubs, can be done over video calls together and can help make us feel more connected to one another. “Maintaining our physical well-being is as important as taking care of our minds,” said Jamila Green, Activities Program Coordinator at Belmont Village Johns Creek. “We help residents go outside to get fresh air and exercise every day.” Get creative with games. A fan-favorite among residents has been doorway activities with neighbors, ranging from heads up to bingo. Belmont’s staff also provides brain teasers and puzzles—time to pull out the old crossword book! Take advantage of virtual fitness. There are more online fitness videos for seniors to choose from than ever. Practicing both strength and aerobic exercises maintains joints and muscles. To learn more about Belmont Village, visit www.belmontvillage.com/johnscreek or call 770-813-9505.
While socially distancing, one resident received a visit from Raggedy Ann. Staff wear costumes, along with their masks and gloves, and visit residents with treats.
BELMONT VILLAGE SALUTES AMERICAN HEROES Every Independence Day, we honor our resident veterans. As we navigate this pandemic together, your courage, sacrifice and resilience are an inspiration to us all. Our commitment to the health and happiness of all of our residents is as strong as ever. As our community, our city and our country move forward, we are mindful of the trust you place in us to provide the highest standards in senior living for San Diego seniors and families. Learn more at BELMONT VILL AGE .COM/JOHNSCREEK
JOHNS CREEK
Howard F., U.S. Navy, Belmont Village Resident American Heroes: Portraits of Service
July 4, 2020 Photography by Thomas Sanders ©2020 Belmont Village, L.P. | PCH 8034
2019 2020
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Staying fit: Five ways for seniors to safely stay active From your friends at Addington Place of Alpharetta Don’t let social distancing slow you down! Here are a few tips to help you safely get some exercise and have fun, too: FLEXIBILITY FIRST! Be sure to stretch – it prevents injury, warms up your muscles and increases flexibility. Breathe deeply and go slowly. Start with your arms and work your way down. Stretching prevents injury, warms up your muscles and increases flexibility. SHOW OF HANDS! All you need are light weights (or a couple soup cans, plastic water bottles, etc.) to use. With your feet flat on the ground, hold the weights at shoulder height. Raise your arms to lift the weights above your head, and repeat! GO HEEL-TOE! Heel-toe movements can reduce foot and ankle pain and they’re great for balance too! Simply place one hand on a wall, counter or chair for balance, stand on your toes, then rock back to your heels and repeat. TALKIN’ TURKEY! Here’s a fun one you can do almost any time! Sit on a
chair and hold on to anything that keeps both hands occupied, like a book or a cushion. Then, as you stand up, stretch out your arms as if you’re serving a turkey to guests. JOG YOUR MEMORY! As you know, not all exercise is physical. Staying mentally limber is essential, and can be plenty of fun. Keep your noggin in tip-top shape with crosswords, word jumbles, sudoku, or a classic jigsaw puzzle!
Contact Addington Place of Alpharetta to schedule a safe virtual tour today and be entered to win a $100 Visa Gift card! Addington Place of Alpharetta Assisted Living & Memory Care 762 N. Main Street, Alpharetta, GA 30009 678-723-3689 AddingtonPlaceAlpharetta.com
II wake up every day“ knowing mom is not just safe, but also really happy.
”
“My mom moved into Addington Place of Alpharetta with my dad. He needed special care and they wanted to be together. Moving into Addington Place kept my parents close, and after dad was gone, mom wasn’t alone when she had a life-threatening emergency. I’m so happy that today she is safe and has a new life with friends, laughter, and her dog Sophie at her side.” — Janet When your loved ones live at Addington Place, you can rest assured they’re in the embrace of a safe, warm community that’s responsive to what’s most important in life. Our first priority remains the safety and wellbeing of our residents, and we welcome the chance to share more about our compassionate staff and person-directed care. Call for more information or schedule a virtual tour and be entered to win a $100 Visa Gift card!
Addington Place of Alpharetta • 762 N. Main Street • Alpharetta, GA 30009 • 678-723-3689 • AddingtonPlaceAlpharetta.com
12 | June 2020 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
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C A L J A L I
AC
T
CK
CAD
HE’S BACK! M
YS ECON D
New show. Same ride.
The Cadillac Jack: My Second Act podcast is aired twice a week and hosted by Caddy and his wife Donna. Caddy was made famous as Atlanta’s renowned morning host for nearly three decades on country radio. In his second act, Caddy will bring his listeners informative and entertaining conversations on current events in podcast form. You’ll recognize Caddy instantly with his unique approach to discussing trending news topics, the latest in country music, and some personal stories from the home front.
Sponsored by: For additional sponsorship opportunities email hans@appenmediagroup.com or call 770.442.3278.
1 GO to NorthFulton.com
2 CLICK on Podcasts
3 SELECT Cadillac Jack: My Second Act
(770) 287-0250 Browns Bridge Rd. in Gainesville